News Bulletin of 7 May 2025, 5pm

The Gauteng Health Department has launched a medical assessment programme aimed at supporting former mine workers in the West Rand.
In partnership with the Medical Bureau for Occupational Diseases, the initiative helps trace ex-miners who may qualify for medical care and social security benefits due to work-related illnesses.
The pilot phase kicked off at Carletonville Hospital, with plans to expand across all Gauteng districts.
Project leader Siyabonga Jikwana says the service will continue beyond the pilot, ensuring long-term support for affected workers.

South Africans can look forward to a milder winter this year, as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) forecasts above-normal temperatures for most parts of the country.
This prediction comes amid the debunking of a viral hoax that falsely claimed an impending extreme cold spell due to the 'Aphelion phenomenon'.

SAWS clarifies that while Aphelion, which is the point in Earth's orbit farthest from the Sun—will occur on July 3, it has minimal impact on our climate.
Instead, seasonal changes are governed by Earth's axial tilt.
The weather service emphasizes that both minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be above normal during the winter season, indicating a warmer-than-usual winter.

At 94 years old, Ercy Ngcobo of Randburg is proving that it’s never too late to make a positive impact
A retired nurse turned environmental activist, Ngcobo uses her passion for healing to help the planet by recycling plastic bags into beautiful, useful items like mats and hats.
Inspired by her love for nature, she started crafting after watching documentaries about pollution.
Her work, which has earned her a nomination for the AFRICA Earth Award, serves as a powerful reminder that small actions can spark change.
Ngcobo’s message to the youth: "Start small, every step counts.